2 day(s)
English
Included
Scenic journey across Lake Manapouri and over Wilmot Pass
Spot wildlife including seals, dolphins, and rare penguins
Explore hidden coves, waterfalls, and dramatic fiord landscapes
Relax under starry skies with tranquil fiord surroundings
€ 220.18
This activity is managed by our trusted partner FareHarbor.
Additional taxes and fees may apply — total shown at checkout.
Select your preferred date and time from the calendar above.
Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling leads to total flexibility while you plan your travels
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Embark on a remarkable overnight adventure through the remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound, one of New Zealand’s most dramatic fiords. Your journey begins with a scenic cruise across the pristine waters of Lake Manapouri, surrounded by lush rainforest and towering peaks. From there, travel over the Wilmot Pass, where winding roads and panoramic vistas set the stage for the natural wonders to come. This journey into the heart of the fiord offers a rare opportunity to experience untouched landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, all far from the crowds. As you settle aboard your vessel, take in the serene surroundings and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the water, a true escape into nature.
During your overnight cruise, explore the fiord’s hidden coves and inlets while your expert crew shares insights about the region’s geology, flora, and fauna. Spot seals, penguins, and dolphins as you glide through calm waters beneath towering cliffs and mist-laden peaks. Evenings are spent relaxing under vast starry skies, with the sound of water lapping against the hull as your only soundtrack. This magical experience combines adventure, comfort, and awe-inspiring scenery, offering an unforgettable immersion into one of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes and a deep connection with the wild beauty of Doubtful Sound.
Scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri and Wilmot Pass
One night onboard The Navigator in Doubtful Sound
Three course dinner and cooked plus continental breakfast
Water activities like kayaking or tender boat ride
Onboard nature guide with wildlife spotting commentary
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Comfortable Shoes
Waterproof jacket
Warm sweater or fleece jacket
Change of clothes
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Lunch and snacks for the first day
Medication, for asthma and allergies
Insect repellent
Swimwear
Camera
Collect boarding passes at least 20 minutes before departure
Free daytime parking at Manapouri Visitor Centre
Overnight parking available on View Street, short walk away
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Type in your hotel/accommodation to see how far the attraction or departure point is.
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This was an incredible experience the whole tour was fabulous. Many thanks to all the staff it was simply amazing!!
Wonderful tour of Doubtful Sound on the Navigator. The views were spectacular and the staff goes over and above to make you feel welcome
Real NZ really works hard to make this trip flow. The real star is the scenery, wildlife, and New Zealand itself. We appreciated the attentiveness of the crew when needed, but more so their willingness to get out of the way for you to experience Doubtful Sound as you wish. There were very few No Go areas on the boat, so one could wander at will. We went on a bridge a couple times and the Captain chatted us up. We got up at 0230 to stargaze on deck. The food was good, the stateroom great, the amount of commentary by the nature guide was a great balance. Our weather was perfect and we had above average wildlife so that made it easy to like. Judging from the crew’s professionalism, I would guess it would be great in adverse weather. The trip across the lake and the bus transport were also first class. Highly recommend. I would recommend some option of a dark deck for stargazing, a lot of lights.
7/11/25 A fantastic experience. Shaun and Wanita were amazing. We were well looked after Shaun shared his amazing knowledge of sailing and nature and Wanita fed us well with her lovely cooking. It was a unique and cosy experience aboard with a small group. The cabin was functional and well maintained. We saw dolphins and penguins. Highly recommend the experience of sailing on Southern Secret.
We just returned from a Doubtful Sound - Southern Secrets Fiordland overnight cruise. I This was an amazing small boat cruise - we only had 7 of us on the boat (I think max is 12)! We went in the spring (November) and while it was rainy, that meant a zillion waterfalls ! Captain Sean drove the boat right up the waterfall and we caught lobster for dinner, too. Juanita was a fantastic chef. Delicious dinner! This is a must do. Small boat cruise is the best way to the Fiords.
The whole experience was excellent. Great accommodation on the boat, good food, and great knowledgeable staff. Loved the info on the history of the area by the bus guide as we traveled over land to get to the boat, and great naturalist on board pointing out animals and sights. One of the highlights of our trip
What a fantastic experience! Dave and Jenny are the sweetest hosts imaginable to a small group of strangers that they expertly lead through Doubtful sound and surrounding sounds and fjords (yes, there is a difference which they will explain!) on a 24 hour, overnight tour. Food, drink (non alcoholic),sights, sounds, smells and warmth included. Highly recommended! Sandro & Carolien
All lovely, thanks. The crew were helpful and friendly. Great food. Fantastic commentary from Brock. Helped by our spectacular surroundings in the sound. Altogether delightful.
We had a fabulous time on a recent overnight cruise on Southern Secret with Dave and Jenny as our hosts. We could not fault this trip: the food was fresh and plentiful, the bedroom was spacious and clean, the sleep was deep and peaceful, the weather gave us surprises with the views of the high mountain tops, and the scenery was jaw droopingly beautiful. There was fishing, kayaking and swimming, not to mention the photographic opportunities at every moment! Highly recommend this trip.
Super one day and one night trip on the Southern Secret. We were lucky enough to have Adam & James looking after us and they were superb hosts. The lunch, dinner and breakfast were excellent with plenty of great freshly caught and cooked food. This isn’t the most luxurious of boats I’ve been on, but every en suite room was supplied with lovely bedding and was very clean. The bed itself was surprisingly comfy. Despite quite a lot of rain - which was great for the waterfalls, we managed to get some great fishing in between downpours. Would highly recommend one night on Southern Secret if you’re looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy some like minded company on the beautiful Doubtful Sound. We chose this over Milford Sound despite it being a little harder to get to as it’s much, much quieter than Milford Sound. Many thanks
